Tips for Working with Seniors and Adults with Disabilities

A person first approach uses respectful, humanizing language by placing the individual before any disability or condition, such as saying “a person with a disability” instead of “a disabled person”. This terminology promotes dignity, humanizes individuals by preventing their identity from being solely defined by a condition, and helps to dismantle stereotypes and negative associations.

A sense of loneliness and isolation is common among the elderly in our community, especially among those who don’t have a local support system of family and friends. Our program’s goal is to help maintain our client’s independence and improve their quality of life by helping them with day to day chores and increasing their social interactions. Volunteers not only help with tangible needs such as transportation or yard work, but they also serve as a friendly face and provide some reassuring human contact. Although not required, small talk while providing a volunteer service can go a long way.

When working with seniors and adults with disabilities we want to allow them to make decisions about their needs. Rather than taking over tasks and doing them they way your prefer, please ask your clients how they would like the task to be done. We want to involve our clients in conversations that value their experiences and opinions. Actively listen to their needs and advice, treating them with the same respect and autonomy you would any other adult.

  • Offer assistance with sensitivity and respect. Wait for the response, then listen to or ask for instructions.

    • Questions are encouraged. Always ask when you are unsure of what to do.

    • Treat adults as adults. Avoid patronizing with voice inflections, pats on the head or touching assistive devices.